Mini DisplayPort Dimensions and Pin Count

Mini DisplayPort (mDP) is a compact audio-visual interface designed to deliver high-bandwidth video and audio signals on space-constrained devices such as laptops and compact graphics cards. This article details the exact physical dimensions, pin count, and mechanical layout of the standardized Mini DisplayPort connector.

Pin Count and Configuration

The Mini DisplayPort connector contains 20 pins, arranged in two horizontal rows of 10 pins each within a central tongue or keyed slot.

Despite its reduced size compared to full-sized DisplayPort, it retains an identical pin count and functional architecture:

  • Main Link Lanes: 4 differential lanes (8 pins total) for transmitting high-speed video and audio data.
  • Ground and Shielding: Dedicated ground pins interleaved between signal lanes to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk.
  • Auxiliary (AUX) Channel: 2 pins dedicated to bidirectional communication, device management, and EDID data transfer.
  • Hot Plug Detect (HPD): 1 pin used to detect connection status.
  • Power (DP_PWR): 1 pin providing 3.3V power (up to 500 mA) for active adapters and signal converters.

Physical Dimensions

The Mini DisplayPort connector was standardized by VESA to reduce the footprint of the standard DisplayPort interface by more than half.

  • Width: Approximately 7.50 mm (0.30 inches)
  • Height: Approximately 4.60 mm (0.18 inches)
  • Insertion Depth: Approximately 4.50 mm to 4.90 mm

For comparison, a standard DisplayPort plug measures roughly 16.10 mm wide by 4.76 mm high. The reduced width allows multiple Mini DisplayPort outputs to be stacked side by side on a single expansion bracket or thin laptop chassis.

Physical Design and Keying

The Mini DisplayPort features an asymmetrical, keyed rectangular profile. The two bottom corners of the connector are chamfered (angled), ensuring that the cable can only be inserted in the correct orientation.

Unlike standard DisplayPort connectors, which commonly employ a push-button mechanical latching hook system, the Mini DisplayPort relies on friction-fit retention clips built into the sides of the metal shield to keep the plug firmly seated inside the receptacle.